Below are Robert Patterson's written answers to questions asked by the Kalamazoo Gazette:

Why should voters elect you to the Kalamazoo City Commission?

I think I will bring resident issues and
concerns to the table and work hard to see that quality services are there for
the people of Kalamazoo.

What are your top three priorities for the city of Kalamazoo?

Mental health, housing and safety, public safety.

The city faces a $6 million budget shortfall over the next two
fiscal years. What areas of the budget represent the best potential for
cost savings? How can this be accomplished?

Public safety, working with the county and
sharing services.

Are there any city services that should not be subject to cost
cutting? If so, what are those areas and why should they be protected?

Mental health.

On this year’s ballot, voters will be asked if the city’s charter
should be amended to make the use of an ounce or less of marijuana by
anyone at least 21 years old the least law enforcement priority in
Kalamazoo. Do you support or oppose this charter amendment? Please
explain your position.

Yes. This should be a low priority. There are
other major issues — meth and cocaine use — that should take the front as a priority.

A long-discussed tax measure to fund an arena in downtown
Kalamazoo will not be on the ballot this November. But the issue could
resurface. Would you support the use of city money — either through
direct investment or tax breaks — to fund the arena project?

No. There are other concerns that should take
priority, like quality services for our residents.